Power meets precision in this cellar-worthy red blend from Franschhoek. “The Max” 2021 delivers layers of dark fruit, crushed violets, and hints of wild geranium, all lifted by a cool touch of spearmint. Rich and structured, the palate unfolds with blackcurrant, graphite, and flinty minerality, while fine-grained oak frames the powerful core. Petit Verdot brings brooding intensity and bold tannins to this masterful blend. Built to age 10–15 years, this is a serious wine for collectors and connoisseurs alike.
Grapes from Bo-Hoek’s sun-drenched vineyards with cool nights were hand-harvested to preserve acidity and ripeness. The 2021 Max, a 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Petit Verdot blend, underwent 24 months maturation in 50% new French oak barrels before careful blending and bottling, producing a structured, age-worthy Cape Bordeaux-style red with rich, harmonious flavors.
Winemaker: Craig McNaught
Winemaker: Craig McNaught
In 1995 the McNaught family purchased an old fruit farm, this property is now known as Stony Brook. With a strong focus on Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon and Chardonnay, the McNaught family replanted the entire farm to vines and built a small cellar in which to produce the first wines under the Stony Brook label. As time has passed, the ideals of Stony Brook have remained firmly in place and the wines still reflect a strong sense of place and passion.
In 2011, the owners were joined by their son, Craig McNaught, who took over the reigns as winemaker. The latest revelation at Stony Brook has been the introduction of Tempranillo vines to the property, comprising the only component in one of their critically-acclaimed wines, Ovidius.
In 2011, the owners were joined by their son, Craig McNaught, who took over the reigns as winemaker. The latest revelation at Stony Brook has been the introduction of Tempranillo vines to the property, comprising the only component in one of their critically-acclaimed wines, Ovidius.
